RivetBangers.com

It doesn't appear that the seatbacks are at all structural in any way shape or form since they just rest on the 705 bulkhead. I have an idea for seats that would not need the Van's supplied seatbacks.

Anybody have anything to say about not using them? I would still utilize the hokey piano hinge adjustment (I think), but a different seatback.

Is there any data that shows they are crashworthy items to have installed?

I say if you want to do something different, go for it!!

Chad the high priced seats from Classic Aero don't use Van's frame. They have an integral tube frame. If you have a good idea I would go for it.

That's what I thought. I asked another local builder about it tonight as well, and he said the same thing. I'm gonna go for it and see how it works out. I'll share more when I know it will or won't work...

Since the lineage of the RV series can trace it's roots to the Stits Playboy I'd think if you want to change a seat backs then go for it.

I am interested in seeing what you have in mind.

Sounds intriguing. Can you elaborate? What do you have in mind?

CJ

Yep, I'll elaborate...soon. Either way, if it works or not, I'll let the cat out. I don't think it's an idea that will thrill many people at all-just me mainly.

Actaully, my dad came up with the concept, and I'm now running with it to see if we can do it.

If you knew my dad, you would know EXACTLY where this idea comes from...

How's that for setting the stage!?

I'm thinking bean bags Just think- you wouldn't have to waste valuable cargo space with folding chairs! You pull up, shut down the plane, get out, then reach in and pull out your bean bag seat and plop it right down where ever you want to sit!

I would guess maybe a mesh back, like a patio chair or the newer office chairs. Be nice and cool and save a few pounds at the same time. Hmmm, might not be a bad idea.

JohnR wrote:I would guess maybe a mesh back, like a patio chair or the newer office chairs. Be nice and cool and save a few pounds at the same time. Hmmm, might not be a bad idea.

DUDE!! I am BUSTED!! How did you know!? That's it, the cat's out I guess. Yeah, I'm working on a frame to utilize nylon mesh for a lightweight, cool alternative to the heat storing foam seats. I have the design down on paper, just gotta get the installation figured out now. It includes the seats as well, not the backs alone.

Thanks John...

Actually I had thought of that this spring when I put the patio chairs out and then kind of forgot about it. When you brought up the seats it made me remember. What can I say, old age. I think it would be a grand idea if you can get the details worked out. Might provide more leg room for us tall guys too.

COOL! Literally!

CJ

That's a neat idea, Chad, but you may want to put some kind of bulkhead behind the seat back- the last thing you need to happen during an accident is a tent stake or something else from the baggage area impaling you through the back of the seat

I've been thinking of something along those lines as well. Not real sure what I'm going to put there yet though...'Course it may not matter if I can't get the idea to work.

Chad,
Don't forget that a well-engineered seat and cushion play a vital role in crash protection. Many survivable crashes involve considerable vertical
g's when arriving back on terra firma.

John

Yeah, that's the main concern here. I don't want to mess with crash-worthyness. I'm trying to devise the design so as to remain as safe as possible if the worst happens.